Early Access: The Uncanny Counter E2

E2. I know it's technically still very early days - this only being episode 2 and all - but I seriously, seriously really like this show.

This is still set-up, so we're still getting to know our characters, and So Mun is still learning the ropes and getting the hang of things, which means that the general flow is somewhat unsurprising. But, just because it leans a touch predictable, doesn't mean it's not enjoyable.

I liked learning more about our Counter gang, alongside So Mun. They really are kinda like X-Men, since besides super strength, they each also have their own special powers. It's useful that Ha Na can sense demons well, and catch them well, and it's also useful that Mo Tak is extra strong. But I just really like the fact that Mae Ok has healing powers. That's a very nurturing sort of superpower, and it suits her well, since she also seems to be the most motherly one in the group. The wiping memory thing reminds me of Men in Black, and is definitely a useful power to have as well.

Mo Tak may appear gruff, but he does take care of So Mun. I couldn't help but feel a little gratified that Mo Tak insisted on hitting the bullies just once each, for what they did to So Mun. Even better, that each hit resulted in broken bones. Gosh, I sound so bloodthirsty, heh.

The tears in So Mun's eyes, as he processes the fact that his leg is fixed, are so viscerally affecting. And the fact that he's been limping for so long really hits me, when he struggles to walk normally, even after his leg is fixed. In this moment, I appreciate Mae Ok's motherly concern, but I appreciate even more, Mo Tak's quiet confidence in giving So Mun time and space to figure it out on his own. Somehow, Mo Tak knows that So Mun can manage on his own, and that it's important for So Mun to feel and experience the new strength in his leg.

The way So Mun starts racing around, with wonder in his face and tears in his eyes, is just the best thing. I am so happy for him. This really is the best gift that they could give him.

It feels so in character for our underdog with the hero's heart, to change his mind about whether to become a Counter, after he's tasted what it's like to save someone. I feel like that's the core of the matter, for him. Sure, getting the use of his leg back is nice, and so is the super strength, but I feel it's the thrill of saving someone's life, that really gets him.

I love seeing So Mun experimenting with his new strength and agility, but it niggles at me that he doesn't seem to be doing a very thorough job of keeping his powers a secret. Yes, sometimes it's to protect himself and Ung Min, but at other times, it feels a little careless, like the way he kicks the ball super high when Ung Min asks him to pass the ball, and the way he disappears so quickly from the field where the rest of his class is playing, when the crew tells him to come out to the front gate. These kinds of things aren't going to help him keep his powers secret, and I'm a little nervous for what this might mean, in terms of consequences.

I couldn't help feeling a sense of vicarious satisfaction, when So Mun defends himself against the trio of bullies, but this is definitely going to become complicated, because now the bullies are out for revenge. I have no doubt So Mun can protect himself and his friends against them now - the training highlights, complete with cool one-armed pull-ups have convinced me of that - and I'm sure I'll be lapping it up eagerly when he does kick their collective butt. I just hope this doesn't get him into trouble when it comes to keeping his powers secret.

Overall, I am really having a good time witnessing So Mun's journey, and I'm ready and eager for more.